Top Tips For Sydney

Photo Credit: Earth Hour Global

Seeking a getaway “Down Under”? The land of kangaroos and crocs welcomes its guests with a hearty “G’day” and a dose of sunshine. Booking Australia flights will often take you to Sydney, and you should definitely explore the country’s largest and oldest city.

A walk around the harbour area is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to some of the famed sights. Begin at the Sydney Opera House, an attraction and venue in its own right, before continuing with a pensive stroll down Writer’s Walk, admiring the inlaid plaques with observations from famous Australian writers. Wend through Circular Quay, exploring the history and ambience of Sydney’s birthplace.

After a ramble through The Rocks, the former dockside quarter and now-trendy neighbourhood next to Circular Quay, continue towards the Harbour Bridge, enjoying views of the famous architecture of the opera house. Night-time views of the opera house are even more impressive; lit up it’s much easier to see the outline of a ship that the façade is intended to evoke.

Those with energy left to spare can do the BridgeClimb across the Harbour Bridge for ever more impressive views of the city skyline.

After exploring downtown, you’ll no doubt get the common Sydneysider impulse to ditch city life and head for the beach. Bondi Beach is Sydney’s most popular for a good reason: proximity to town, a relaxed vibe, and good surf. Check online for forecasts and tips on other beaches in the area if Bondi is too crowded for your tastes.

One of Australia’s major attractions to visitors is undoubtedly its exotic wildlife. Sydney has a number of great places to witness flora and fauna up close and in the wild. Check out the Sydney Aquarium, the Royal Botanic Gardens, WildlifeWorld, Hyde Park, and the network of parks and reserves in the Greater Sydney area.

Whether you have time to just scratch the surface or really dig in, there’s a feast for everyone in Sydney. Bonza, mate!

Here are some useful tips about practicalities, which should help you get the most out of your Aussie adventure:

Essential Information

Sydney Airport – Landing pad for most international flights, the airport is well connected to the city centre by bus and train.

Transit – Public transportation (bus, train, or ferry) is cheap and accessible, plus it beats the expense and hassle of trying to park in downtown.

Weather – The peak of the rainy season comes around July-September and peak holiday time for locals is in January, the middle of the Aussie summer. Though year-round temperatures are mild, try May and October for comfortable weather and smaller crowds.

Visas – All foreign nationals, except those wily New Zealanders, will need a visa to enter Australia. See www.immi.gov.au for more information.

Important Items to Bring

An extra layer, for the odd sea breeze or cool evening stroll.

A rain jacket or umbrella, for a sudden downpour.

Bug repellent, for the pesky mosquitoes (or “mozzies”). Especially useful at night, when the bugs come out in greater numbers.

Sun cream, even if you’re not going to the beach. Seriously.